Modular panel shield and configurable system thereof

ABSTRACT

Provided is a modular panel shield and a system of modular panel shields. The modular panel shield includes a base and a panel. The base includes a channel, and is configured to provide stability with respect to a floor on which the modular panel shield is disposed. The panel is secured in the channel, and has a light distortion portion and a transparent portion, wherein the light distortion portion is configured to provide a distorted view through the panel, and the transparent portion is configured to provide a clear view through the panel. The system includes a first modular panel shield, second modular panel shield, and a connector connecting the first modular panel shield and the second modular panel shield.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/046,359 filed on Jun. 30, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND Field

The present application relates to panels for separating and/or shielding various spaces. More specifically, the present application is directed to a modular panel shield and configurable system of panel shields.

Brief Discussion of Related Art

Infectious diseases are generally caused by microscopic germs or microbes (e.g., bacteria, viruses, fungi, yeasts, and parasites) that get into the human body and cause problems. Some of the infectious diseases are contagious as they can spread directly from one person to another through close contact. Contagious diseases (e.g., flu, cold, strep throats) can spread from person to person in several ways. One way for the spread is through direct physical contact, like touching or kissing a person who has an infection. Another way is when an infectious microbe travels through the air after someone nearby sneezes or coughs. Of course, there are other ways that people could get contagious diseases, such as by touching or using something an infected person has touched or used.

Open spaces (e.g., gyms, malls, airports, restaurants, school classrooms, etc.) can advance the spread of the contagions (e.g., bacteria and viruses) allowing their travel through open spaces unimpeded. While individuals can help protect themselves against contagious diseases by washing hands well and often, and staying away from those who are sick, it is more difficult to do so in open spaces where air that might harbor contagions travels unimpeded through these open spaces.

In various open spaces, it might be desirable to not only physically impede or obstruct the free flow of the air (e.g., contagion) between individuals, but at times it might also be desirable to provide certain visual separation or obstruction of view of individuals in the aforementioned open spaces, yet allowing the open spaces to be used to continue business operations more safely and effectively. Various stationary barricades and/or walls can be used, but do not provide the desirable combination of function and esthetics for the aforementioned separation with continuation of business and/or education in mind.

It is therefore desirable to provide a modular panel shield and configurable system of panel shields that can shield, protect, and isolate people and places from spread of contagions in open spaces, yet provide for continuation of business-related and education-related activities in these open spaces.

SUMMARY

The modular panel shield and system thereof is intended to be modular, portable, mobile, and multi-configurable to shield, protect and isolate people and places from the spread of contagions. The modular panel shield can be a free-standing unit of various sizes, or a system of multiple panel shields, for various applications.

The panel shield can include a transparent, opaque, or semi-transparent multiwall polycarbonate panel that allows transmission of light but distorts the view except when desired. When desired a clear view panel can be added for a clear view through the panel shield. A base assembly of the panel shield can be stood in place, mounted to a floor, or set on a variety of wheel assemblies. Moreover, the panel shield can include features for transactions, including a clear view panel with a speak-thru port, and a combined transaction opening with a shelf.

Connectors are provided to allow for a configurable system of modular panel shields, providing the ability to form various configurations of multiple panel shields, such as straight or irregular wall-type configurations, and/or semi-enclosed configurations (e.g., rooms).

In accordance with an embodiment, a modular panel shield is disclosed. The modular panel shield includes a base and a panel. The base includes a channel, and is configured to provide stability with respect to a floor on which the modular panel shield is disposed. The panel is secured in the channel, and has a light distortion portion and a transparent portion, wherein the light distortion portion is configured to provide a distorted view through the panel, and the transparent portion is configured to provide a clear view through the panel.

In some cases, the base is free standing on a surface or mounted to the surface. In other cases, the modular panel shield includes a plurality of wheel assemblies secured to the base to provide movability along a surface. The base includes a base plate and a pair of L-brackets secured to the base plate, wherein the base and the L-brackets form the channel therebetween.

In some cases, the panel includes a pair of panels secured to each other to provide the distorted view through the panel.

In some cases, the panel includes an opening through the panel, and a second panel secured with respect to the opening to provide the clear view through the panel. The second panel can include a second opening through the second panel, and a speak-thru assembly secured with respect to the second opening.

In some cases, the panel includes an opening through the panel, and a shelf assembly secured with respect to the opening. The shelf assembly can include a shelf and a pair of legs secured to the shelf, wherein the shelf is disposed within the opening and extends through the opening to both sides of the panel, and the legs straddle sides of the panel.

In accordance with another embodiment, a modular panel shield system is disclosed. The modular panel shield system includes a first modular panel shield, a second modular panel shield, and a connector. It should be noted that the first modular panel shield and the second modular panel shield can be similar to the modular panel shield disclosed in the first embodiment.

The first modular panel shield includes a first base and a first panel. The first base includes a first channel, and is configured to provide stability with respect to a floor on which the first modular panel shield is disposed. The first panel is secured in the first channel, wherein the first panel has at least a first light distortion portion that is configured to provide a first distorted view through the first modular panel.

The second modular panel shield includes a second base and a second panel. The second base includes a second channel, and is configured to provide stability with respect to a floor on which the second modular panel shield is disposed. The second panel is secured in the second channel, wherein the second panel has at least a second light distortion portion that is configured to provide a second distorted view through the second modular panel.

The connector is configured to connect the first modular panel and the second modular panel.

In some cases, the connector is an articulable connector allowing the first modular panel to articulate with respect to the second modular panel between 0° to 180°. The articulable connector includes a flexible sheet and a pair of panel connectors.

Each panel connector of the pair of panel connectors can include a base and sidewalls forming a third channel therebetween, wherein the flexible sheet is connected to outside sidewalls of the pair of panel connectors. The sidewalls can be angled toward a centerline extending along the third channel of each panel connector of the pair of panel connectors.

In some cases, the connector is a straight connector allowing the first modular panel to extend in-line with respect to the second modular panel. The straight connector can include a pair of panel connectors, wherein each panel connector of the pair of panel connectors includes a base and sidewalls forming a fourth channel therebetween, and wherein the bases of the pair of panel connectors are secured by an adhesive, or the straight connector is extruded as a monolithic straight connector that includes the pair of panel connectors. The sidewalls can also be angled toward a centerline extending along the fourth channel.

In some cases of the articulable connector, at least one panel connector of the pair of panel connectors includes a base and sidewalls that form a third channel therebetween, wherein at least one sidewall of the sidewalls forms a channel configured to receive therein and connect the flexible sheet. The sidewalls can be angled toward a centerline extending along the third channel of each panel connector of the pair of panel connectors.

In some cases, the first base and the second base are free standing on a surface or mounted to the surface. In other cases, each of the first modular panel shield and the second modular panel shield can include a plurality of wheel assemblies secured respectively to the first base and the second to provide movability along a surface.

In some cases, each of the first base and the second base can include a base plate and a pair of L-brackets secured to the base plate, the base plate and the L-brackets forming a channel therebetween, wherein the channel can be the first channel or the second channel.

In some cases, each of the first panel and the second panel includes a pair of panels secured to each other to provide the first distorted view and the second distorted view through the first panel and the second panel respectively.

In some cases, the first panel or the second panel includes an opening therethrough, and a third panel is secured with respect to the opening to provide the clear view through the first panel or the second panel. The third panel can include a second opening through the third panel, and a speak-thru assembly secured with respect to the second opening.

In some cases, the first panel or the second panel can include an opening therethrough, and a shelf assembly secured with respect to the opening. The shelf assembly can include a shelf and a pair of legs secured to the shelf, wherein the shelf is disposed within the opening and extends through the opening to both sides of the first panel or the second panel, and the legs straddle sides of the first panel or the second panel.

These and other purposes, goals and advantages of the present application will become apparent from the following detailed description of example embodiments read in connection with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Some embodiments are illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIGS. 1A-1D illustrate several views of an example base plate assembly and its components including a base plate and pair of L-plates;

FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate several views of an example modular panel shield and its components according to a first example embodiment, including a panel, plurality of wheel assemblies, and base plate assembly as illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1D;

FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate several views of an example modular panel shield and its components according to a second example embodiment, including a panel, speak-thru assembly, shelf assembly, plurality of wheel assemblies, and base plate assembly as illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1D;

FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B illustrate several exploded and semi-transparent views of the speak-thru assembly as illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3D;

FIG. 4C and FIG. 4D illustrate several exploded and semi-transparent views of the shelf assembly, as illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3D;

FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B illustrate several views of an example modular panel shield system and its components according to a first example embodiment, including a pair of modular panel shields and panel shield connector;

FIG. 5C illustrates an example modular panel shield system and its components according to a second example embodiment, including a pair of modular panel shields, panel shield connector, and bracket;

FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate several views of the panel shield connector according to FIGS. 5A and 5B;

FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B illustrate several views of an example modular panel shield system and its components according to a third example embodiment, including a pair of modular panel shields and panel shield connector;

FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B illustrate an example modular panel shield system and its components according to a third example embodiment, including at least a pair of modular panel shields and a panel shield connector; and

FIGS. 9-12 illustrate several example views of modular panel shields in various open spaces.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A panel shield and panel shield system are disclosed herein. In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of example embodiments or aspects. It will be evident, however, to one skilled in the art, that an example embodiment may be practiced without all of the disclosed specific details.

FIGS. 1A-1D illustrate several views of a base plate assembly 102. The base plate assembly 102 is made of a metal such as iron, steel, aluminum, one or more other metals, or a combination of metals. The base plate assembly 102 includes a base plate 104 and a pair of L-plates 106, 108.

The base plate 104 is generally a flat component that can have planar top and bottom surfaces, as well as rounded corners, e.g., having a 1″ radius. In some embodiments, the base plate 104 can have a length of 36″, a width of 10″, and a thickness of 3/16″, with a centerline 122 extending approximately along at a 5″ width of the base plate 104. In various embodiments, the foregoing length dimension of the base plate 104 can be adjusted depending on particular requirements. For example, the length can alternatively be 48″, 60″, 72″, or can be shorter or longer. Similarly, the width and thickness dimensions can be adjusted similarly, to either narrower or wider, and/or thicker or thinner, respectively.

The base plate assembly 102 can be mobile or stationary. In mobile embodiments where the base plate assembly 102 is independently movable, the base plate 104 can include sets of openings 112 to secure wheel assemblies using appropriately sized bolts (not shown) insertable through the openings 112 and secured by respective nuts (not shown). However, in stationary embodiments where the base plate assembly 102 is not independently movable, the openings 112 can be omitted from the base plate 104, and the base plate assembly 102 can be disposed on a surface, such as a floor. It should be noted that in both embodiments, and especially in the stationary embodiment, the base plate assembly 102 can be moved by machinery, such as forklifts and the like.

The openings 112 can be 5/16″ in diameter, or can be bigger or smaller in diameter. Each set of openings 122 includes opening 112 a-112 d. The sets of openings 112 are spaced away from the corners of the base plate 104. For example, opening 112 a and 112 b can be spaced 2 7/32″ from the short edge of the base plate 104, while openings 112 a and 112 d can be spaced 23/32 from the long edge of the base plate 104. The distance between openings 112 a, 112 b and 112 c, 112 d along the short edge of the base plate 104 can be 15/16″, while the distance between openings 112 a, 112 d and 112 b, 112 c along the long edge of the base plate 104 can be 2⅛″. Other dimensions can be considered based on dimensions of respective openings in a base plate of the wheel assemblies.

The L-plates 106, 108 are disposed along the length of the base plate 104 to form a channel 116. As will be described in greater detail below, the channel 116 will receive and secure a panel therein to the base plate 104. The L-plates 106, 108 are dimensioned to extend approximately along the entire length of the base plate 104. In some embodiments, the length of the L-plates 106, 108 can be 35½″ disposed evenly along a 36″ length of the base plate 104, such that the L-plates 106, 108 are approximately distanced ¼″ from the short edge of the base plate 104. In various embodiments, the foregoing length dimension of the L-plates 106, 108 can be adjusted depending on particular requirements. For example, the length can alternatively be 47½″, 59½″, 71½″, or can be shorter or longer. Similarly, the width and thickness dimensions can be adjusted similarly, to either narrower or wider, and/or thicker or thinner, respectively.

The base plate 104 is generally a flat component that can have planar top and bottom surfaces, as well as rounded corners, e.g., having a 1″ radius. In some embodiments, the base plate 104 can have a length of 36″, a width of 10″, and a thickness of 3/16″, with a centerline 122 extending approximately along at a 5″ width of the base plate 104. In various embodiments, the foregoing length dimension of the base plate 104 can be adjusted depending on particular requirements. For example, the length can alternatively be 48″, 60″, 72″, or can be shorter or longer. Similarly, the width and thickness dimensions can be adjusted similarly, to either narrower or wider, and/or thicker or thinner, respectively

Each of the L-plates 106, 108 can have a thickness of ⅛″, and includes a lower (e.g., horizontal) plate 118 and an upper (e.g., vertical) plate 120, as well openings 110 through the upper plate 120. It should be noted that the thickness dimension can be adjusted to either thicker or thinner depending on particular requirements of the L-plates 106, 108. The lower plate 118 can have a width of 2″ from the inner edge of the upper plate 120 to the outer edge 114, while the upper plate 120 can have a height of 5″ from a bottom edge of the lower plate 118 to a top edge of the upper plate 120. The openings 110 can be spaced 11¾″ from the short edge of the upper plate 120 and 1″ from the long top edge of the upper plate 120, resulting in approximately 12″ between openings 110.

While only two openings 110 are illustrated, it should be noted that there can be more openings 110 depending on the length of the L-plates 106, 108 for securing a panel. For example, there can be three openings 110 spaced equidistantly at 24″ along the L-plates 106, 108 that have a length of 71½″, with the openings closest to the short edges of the upper plates 120 disposed at 11¾″ from the short edges.

Each of the L-plates 106, 108 can be secured (e.g., welded) to the base plate 104, such as along the outer edge 114 of the lower plate 118 extending along the length of the base plate 104, so that the channel 116 is centrally located along the centerline 122. Other ways of securing the L-plates 106, 108 to the base plate 104 can be used, such as respective nut-bolt combinations securing the L-plates 106, 108 to the base plate 104 through respective holes in the lower plates 118 and the base plate 104.

The channel 116 is centrally disposed along a centerline 122 of the base plate 104, having a width of 11/16″, a height of 5″, and a length extending along the length of the L-plates 106, 108, e.g., 35½″, 47½″, 59½″, or 71½″. The foregoing dimensions can be adjusted by adjusting the dimensions of the L-plates 106, 108, as well as their positioning on the base plate 104.

FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate several views of a modular panel shield 204 and its components according to a first example embodiment, including a panel 202, plurality of wheel assemblies 206, and base plate assembly 102 as illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1D.

The panel 202 is generally a wall-like component that has planar front and back surfaces. In some embodiments, the panel 202 can have a length of 36″, a height of 76 7/16″, and a width of 10/16″. In various embodiments, the length of the panel 202 will generally be dictated by the length of the base panel 104, e.g., 36″, 48″, 60″, 72″, or another shorter or longer length dimension. The height of the panel 202 can be selected so that the height of the completed modular panel shield 204 is approximately 78″ from a surface on which it is disposed, e.g., ground or floor. Other heights are possible based on particular requirements. The width of the panel is selected to slide into the channel 116 of the base plate assembly 102.

The panel 202 can be transparent, translucent (semi-transparent), or opaque, and can be made of plastic, polycarbonate, acrylic, glass, tempered glass (e.g., prevent injury by breaking into many pieces), or safety glass (e.g., laminated with intermediate material (PVB) to prevent injury on breaking). In various embodiments, the panel can be a single wall or multi-walled panel. In some embodiments, the panel 202 can be a twin-walled polycarbonate panel, which allows transmission of light but distorts the view through the panel 202. The panel 202 can be transparent, notwithstanding the distortion of the view through the panel, opaque or semi-transparent (semi-opaque), which while allowing transmission of light at least partially or almost completely obscures the view through the panel 202.

In the construction of the modular panel shield 204, the panel 202 is inserted and secured in the channel 116 of the base plate assembly 102. The panel 202 includes openings 206 that are disposed with respect to one another so that they line-up with respective openings 110 through the L-plates 106, 108 of the base plate assembly 102. Nut-bolt combinations (not shown) are used to secure the panel 202 with respect to base plate assembly 102 through openings 110 of L-plate 106, openings 206 of the panel 202, and openings 110 of L-plate 106. In some embodiments, a panel cap 201—illustrated as a dashed line—is added about the panel 202 extending from the base plate assembly 102 and around exposed edges of the panel 202 so as to prevent injuries resulting in uncovered sharp edges of the panel, as well as providing aesthetic peripheral edges around the panel 202. The panel cap 201 can be made (e.g., extruded) in a form of a channel molding.

The wheel assemblies 206 secured to the base plate 104 via respective sets 112 of openings 112 a-112 d using nut-bolt combinations (not shown). The wheel assemblies 206 can be ball wheel assemblies, caster wheel assemblies, or any other type of conventional or specially designed wheel assemblies that are securable to the base plate 104 of the base plate assembly 102. The height dimension of the wheel assemblies 206 can be ⅜″ It should be noted that the height dimension can be different based on the type of wheel assemblies 206 that are used. In this regard, the height of the panel 202 can thus be adjusted for the total overall height of the modular panel shield to be 78″, or any other desirable overall height.

The wheel assemblies 206 enable the modular panel shield 204 to be moved (e.g., rolled) along a surface (e.g., ground, floor) and be positioned at a desirable location, or the position of the modular panel shield 204 to be adjusted with respect to a desirable location.

FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate several views of a modular panel shield 307 and its components according to a second example embodiment, including a panel 302, speak-thru assembly 304, shelf assembly 306, plurality of wheel assemblies 206, and base plate assembly 102 as illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1D.

The panel 302 can similar to or different from the panel 202 described with respect to the first embodiment of FIGS. 2A-2D. In particular, the panel 302 can similarly be a wall-like component that has planar front and back surfaces. In some embodiments, the panel 302 can have a length of 36″, a height of 76 7/16″, and a width of 10/16″. In various embodiments, the length of the panel 302 will generally be dictated by the length of the base panel 104, e.g., 36″, 48″, 60″, 72″, or another shorter or longer length dimension. Similarly the height of the panel 302 can be selected so that the overall height of the completed modular panel shield 307 is approximately 78″ from a surface on which it is disposed, e.g., ground or floor. Other heights are possible based on particular requirements. The width of the panel 302 is selected to slide into the channel 116 of the base plate assembly 102.

The panel 302 can be transparent, translucent (semi-transparent), or opaque, and can be made of plastic, polycarbonate, acrylic, glass, tempered glass (e.g., prevent injury by breaking into many pieces), or safety glass (e.g., laminated with intermediate material (PVB) to prevent injury on breaking). In various embodiments, the panel 302 can be a single walled or multi-walled panel. In some embodiments, the panel 302 can be a twin-walled polycarbonate panel, which allows transmission of light but distorts the view through the panel 302. The panel 302 can be transparent notwithstanding the distortion of the view through the panel, opaque or semi-transparent (semi-opaque) which while allowing transmission of light at least partially or almost completely obscures the view through the panel 202. In some embodiments, the panel cap 201 can be added about the panel 302 extending from the base plate assembly 102 and around exposed edges of the panel 302 so as to prevent injuries resulting in uncovered sharp edges of the panel, as well as providing aesthetic peripheral edges around the panel 302.

The panel 302 can include through openings 305 and 303 to secure a speak-thru assembly 304 and a shelf assembly 306, respectively. The opening 303 for the speak-thru assembly 304 can be 16″×16″, while the opening 305 for the shelf assembly 306 can be 16″×5″.

The speak-thru assembly 304 can include two reciprocal overlays 314, 316, each of which includes a 16″×16″ base (FIG. 4A—402) that snuggly fits the opening 303, and a 17″×17″ surface (FIG. 4A—404) that extends beyond the opening 303 and overlays the surface of the panel 302. The reciprocal overlays can include a speak-thru port 308 disposed in the middle of the overlays. In some embodiments, the speak-thru port 308 can be formed simply by a plurality of channels cut through the reciprocal overlays. In other embodiments, 5″ reciprocal openings can be cut through the middle of the overlays, and port pieces 318, 320 (e.g., stainless steel, plastic, etc.) can be provided, wherein each of the port pieces includes a 5″×5″ base that snuggly fits the openings and a 5½″ face that extends beyond these openings and overlays the surfaces of the speak-thru assembly 304. The port pieces 318, 320 can be secured to each other by fasteners (FIG. 4A —406), such as screws, bolts, or other fasteners.

In some embodiments, a first portion of the panel 302 allows a clear view through the first portion, while a second portion of the panel 302 distorts and/or obscures or semi-obscures the view through the second portion. For example, the speak-thru assembly 304 allows a clear view through a first portion 322 of the panel 302, while the remaining portion 324 of the panel 302 distorts and/or obscures or semi-obscures the view through the panel 302, as illustrated in FIG. 3D.

The shelf assembly 306 can be ¼″ in thickness, and includes a shelf 310 and a pair of leg supports 312 secured to the shelf 310. The shelf can be 16″×6″. Each of the leg supports 312 can be secured transversely to the undersurface of the shelf 310, and can include a base (FIG. 4D—408) disposed in the opening 303 atop a lower surface (FIG. 4C—414) of the opening 303, and pair of legs 312 that straddle the panel 302 along front and back surfaces of the panel 302, as will be illustrated in greater detail in FIG. 4C.

In the construction of the modular panel shield 307, the panel 302 is inserted and secured in the channel 116 of the base plate assembly 102. The panel 302 includes openings 206 that are disposed with respect to one another so that they line-up with respective openings 110 through the L-plates 106, 108 of the base plate assembly 102. Nut-bolt combinations (not shown) are used to secure the panel 302 with respect to base plate assembly 102 through openings 110 of L-plate 106, openings 206 of the panel 302, and openings 110 of L-plate 106.

The wheel assemblies 206 secured to the base plate 104 via respective sets 112 of openings 112 a-112 d using nut-bolt combinations (not shown). The wheel assemblies 206 can be ball wheel assemblies, caster wheel assemblies, or any other type of conventional or specially designed wheel assemblies that are securable to the base plate 104 of the base plate assembly 102.

The wheel assemblies 206 enable the modular panel shield 307 to be moved (e.g., rolled) along a surface (e.g., ground, floor) and be positioned at a desirable location, or the position of the modular panel shield 307 to be adjusted with respect to a desirable location.

FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B illustrate several exploded and semi-transparent views of the speak-thru assembly 304 as illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3D.

The speak-thru assembly 304 includes two reciprocal overlays 314, 316. Each of the overlays 314, 316 includes a base 402 that snuggly fits the opening 303, and a surface 404 that extends beyond the opening 303 and overlays the respective front or back surface of the panel 302. The speak-thru port 308 includes two reciprocal port pieces 318, 320. Each of the port pieces 318, 320 includes a base 405 that snuggly fits an opening of one of the respective overlays 314, 316 and a face that extends beyond the opening and overlays a respective surface of overlays 314, 316. The port pieces 318, 320 can be secured to each other by fasteners 406.

FIG. 4C and FIG. 4D illustrate several exploded and semi-transparent views of the shelf assembly 306, as illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3D.

The shelf assembly 306 can include a shelf 310 and leg supports 312 secured to the shelf 310. As illustrated, the leg supports 312 are spaced apart along the shelf 310 and secured transversely to the undersurface of the shelf 310. Each of the leg supports 312 includes a base 408 disposed in the opening 303 atop a lower surface 414 of the opening 303, and legs 410, 412 that straddle the panel 302 along front and back surfaces of the panel 302. The legs 410, 412 have triangular-like shape that tapers from the base 408 downwardly toward the front and back surfaces of the panel 302.

FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B illustrate several views of a modular panel shield system 500 and its components according to a first example embodiment, including a pair of modular panel shields 502, 504 and panel shield connector 506. Each of the panels 502, 504 can be panel 202 as described with reference to FIGS. 2A-2C, or panel 302 described with reference to FIGS. 3A-3D, with or without panel the panel cap 201 about the panels 202, 302. It is preferable to include the panel cap 201 so as to cover exposed edges, preventing injuries resulting in uncovered sharp edges of the panels, as well as providing aesthetic peripheral edges around the panels.

The panels 502, 504 are connected by a panel shield connector 506. The connector 506 is flexible allowing the modular panel shields 502, 504 to be angled with respect to each other. For example, the modular panel shields 502, 504 are illustrated at a 90° angulation. However, the angulation between the panel shields 502, 504 can vary between 0° (wherein the panels are completely folded with respect to each other) and 180° (wherein the panels extend in one line with respect to each other).

While only two modular panel shields 502, 504 are illustrated for clarity and brevity, it should be noted that the modular panel shield system 500 can include a plurality of modular panel shields that are connected by respective panel shield connectors 506.

FIG. 5C illustrates a modular panel shield system 500 and its components according to a second example embodiment, including a pair of modular panel shields 502, 504, panel shield connector 506, and bracket 510.

As described hereinabove, the modular panel shields 502, 504 can be connected by the panel shield connector 506 and can further be angled with respect to each other to a desired angulation, e.g., between 0° and 180°. The bracket 510 can be used to secure the angulation of the modular panel shields 502, 504. The bracket 508 having a desired angulation can be used to secure the modular panel shields 502, 504. For example, the bracket 510 is illustrated at 90° angulation that can match the desired angulation of the modular panel shields 502, 504, with respect to each other.

More specifically, the bracket 508 includes openings 510 that are disposed with respect to one another so that they line-up with respective openings 110 of L-plates 106, 108 of the base plate assembly 102 of the modular panel shields 502, 504. The same nut-bolt combinations (not shown) can be used to secure the bracket 508 to the base plate assemblies 102 of the modular panel shields 502, 504, as is used to secure the panels 202 or 302 with respect to base plate assemblies 102 of the modular panel shields 502, 504.

The bracket 508 can have a thickness of ⅛″. Moreover, the bracket includes extensions—angulated with respect to each other and each having a first (horizontal) plate and a second (vertical) plate—forming the bracket 508. The extensions of the bracket 508 can be 19″×1½″×1½″. The first plate of the extensions can have a 1″ radius at its terminal corner.

FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate several views of panel shield connector 506 according to FIGS. 5A and 5B. The panel shield connector 506 includes a sheet 600, and first and second panel connectors 602, 604. The sheet 600 can be 30″ long×70″ high, and 1/32″ in thickness. The length of the sheet 600 can vary based on the distance and desired angulation between the modular panel shields 502, 504 of the modular panel shield system 500. The height of the sheet 600 illustrated in FIG. 6C can vary based on the height of the panels 202, 302 of the modular panel shields 502, 504. The first and second panel connectors 602, 604 can be in a form of a channel molding that includes a base 608 and sidewalls 610, 612, forming a channel 606 therebetween. The first and second panel connectors 602, 604 can be 70″ high, and have 1/16″ thickness.

In the non-deployed state 614 of the panel shield connector 506, the base 608 is curvilinear and the sidewalls 610, 612 are angled inwardly and biased toward a centerline extending along the channel 606, forming an opening to the channel 606 of about 11/16″.

However, when the panel shield connector 506 is deployed to connect the modular panel shields 502, 504, the first and second panel connectors 602, 604 are disposed over the panels 202, 302 of the modular panel shields 502, 504, causing the base 608 to flatten out and the sidewalls 610, 612 to deflect away from the centerline extending along the channel 606, thus squeezing the panels 202, 302 in the channels 606. In embodiments having a panel cap 201 (illustrated as a dashed line), the first and second panel connectors 602, 604 are disposed over the exposed edges of the panels 202, 302. In the deployed state, the base 608 and the sidewalls 610, 612 can be at approximately 90° and form an opening to the channel 606 of about ¾″.

Moreover, the sheet 600 is flexible, which allows the modular panel shields 502, 504 to be disposed at an angle (e.g., 0° to 180°) with respect to each another. The sheet 600 can be made of PVC, polycarbonate, ABS, styrene, or another flexible material. The sheet 600 is secured to the sidewalls 610 or sidewalls 612 of the first and second panel connectors 602, 604 along their height. The sheet can be transparent, translucent (semi-transparent), or opaque (semi-opaque).

FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B illustrate several views of a modular panel shield system 700 and its components according to a third example embodiment, including a pair of modular panel shields 502, 604 and panel shield connector 701.

In this example embodiment, the modular panel shields 502, 504 are disposed in an approximately straight line (e.g., 180°) with respect to each other, thus combining several modular panel shields 502, 504 to generally form a longer modular panel shield.

The panel shield connector 701 includes and first and second panel connectors 702, 704, and adhesive 706 that secures the first and second panel connectors 702, 704 to thus form the panel shield connector 701. More specifically, the bases 608 of the first and second panel connectors 702, 704 are generally planar and adhered by the adhesive 706, allowing respective sidewalls 610, 612 to form reciprocal channels 606 that can connect the modular panel shields 502, 504. In some embodiments, the panel shield connector 701 can be extruded as a monolithic connector, in which case the adhesive 706 is omitted.

While not illustrated, in the non-deployed state of the panel shield connector 701, the sidewalls 610, 612 of the respective first and second panel connectors 702, 704 can be angled inwardly and biased toward a centerline extending along the channel 606, forming an opening to the channel 606 of about 11/16″.

However, when the panel shield connector 701 is deployed to connect the modular panel shields 502, 504, the first and second panel connectors 702, 704 are disposed over the panels 202, 302 of the modular panel shields 502, 504, causing the sidewalls 610, 612 to deflect away from the centerline extending along the channels 606, thus squeezing the panels 202, 302 in the channels 606. In embodiments having a panel cap 201 (illustrated as a dashed line), the first and second panel connectors 702, 704 are disposed over the panel cap 201 of the panels 202, 302. In the deployed state, the base 608 and the sidewalls 610, 612 can be at approximately 90° and form an opening to the channel 606 of about ¾″.

While not illustrated, a straight bracket can be provided to secure the modular panel shields 502, 504 as disposed in the approximately straight line (e.g., 180°) with respect to each other. More specifically, the straight bracket 508 can include openings that are disposed with respect to one another so that they line-up with respective openings 110 of L-plates 106, 108 of the base plate assembly 102 of the modular panel shields 502, 504. The same nut-bolt combinations (not shown) can be used to secure the bracket to the base plate assemblies 102 of the modular panel shields 502, 504, as is used to secure the panels 202 or 302 with respect to base plate assemblies 102 of the modular panel shields 502, 504.

The bracket can have a thickness of ⅛″. Moreover, the bracket can include a first (horizontal) plate and a second (vertical) plate forming the bracket. The bracket 508 can be 26″×1½″×1½″. The first plate can have a 1″ radius at the terminal corners.

FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B illustrate an example modular panel shield system 800 and its components according to a third example embodiment, including at least a pair of modular panel shields 502, 504 and a panel shield connector 806.

In various embodiments, the modular panel shield system 800 can include a plurality or even a multiplicity of panel shields 502, 504 connected by panel shield connectors 806. For example, FIG. 8B illustrates an example open space (e.g., school classroom) that includes an example teacher seating position (desk/table) 810 and example student seating positions (desks/tables) 808. As particularly illustrated, student seating positions 808 can be effectively separated and students shielded, while facilitating classroom instructions in conventional fashion, using the panel shield system 800.

As illustrated in FIG. 8B, the panel shield connector 806 includes a sheet 600, and first and second panel connectors 802, 804. The sheet 600 can be 48″ long×60″ high, and 1/32″ in thickness. The length of the sheet 600 can vary based on the desired space for a particular student's seating position 808, and thus the desired distance between the modular panel shields 502, 504 of the modular panel shield system 800. The height of the sheet 600 can vary based on the height of the panels 202 of the modular panel shields 502, 504. For a school classroom, the height of the panels 202 can be 48″, or higher or lower depending on particular classroom requirements. While the sheet 600 can be transparent, translucent (semi-transparent), or opaque (semi-opaque), it is preferred for the sheet 600 to be transparent to facilitate classroom instruction.

FIG. 8A illustrates the construction of the first and second panel connectors 802, 804 as an example panel connector 812. In some embodiments, the panel connector 812 can be disposed over the panel 202 of modular panels shields 502, 504. In other embodiments, the panel connector 812 can be disposed over the panel cap 201, which is in turn disposed over the panel 202 of modular panels shields 502, 504. The panel connector 812 is extruded in a form of a channel molding that not only includes a base 608 and sidewalls 610, 612 forming a channel 606 therebetween as illustrated in FIG. 6B, but that also includes respective channels 814, 816 formed in the sidewalls 610, 612 for receiving the sheet 600. The first and second panel connectors 802, 804 can also be 60″ high, and have 1/16″ thickness. The channels 814, 816 can be 1/32″ for receiving the sheet 600.

FIGS. 9-13 illustrate several example views of modular panel shields in various open spaces. For example, FIG. 9 illustrates a gym in which certain open space(s), such as including gym equipment, furniture, and/or other spaces, can be separated and users shielded. FIG. 10 illustrates a casino in which certain open space(s), such as including casino games, machines, tables and/or table positions, and/or other spaces can be separated and users shielded. FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate a mall in which certain open space(s), such as including kiosk areas, food-court areas, and/or other spaces can be separated and users shielded. Lastly, FIG. 13 illustrates a restaurant in which certain open space(s), such as order/pick-up queues, table seating, and/or other spaces can be separated and users shielded.

While FIGS. 9-13 illustrate several modular panel shields in various open spaces, it should be noted that a configurable system having two or more connected modular panel shields according to FIGS. 5A-8B can be configured for various of the spaces illustrated and/or a variety of other spaces so that these spaces can be separated and users shielded in various applications.

Thus, modular panel shield and system thereof have been described. Although specific example embodiments or aspects have been described, it will be evident that various modifications and changes may be made to these embodiments or aspects without departing from the broader scope of the invention. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. The accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, show by way of illustration, and not of limitation, specific embodiments or aspects in which the subject matter may be practiced. The embodiments or aspects illustrated are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the teachings disclosed herein. Other embodiments or aspects may be utilized and derived therefrom, such that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. This Detailed Description, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of various embodiments or aspects is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full range of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Such embodiments or aspects of the inventive subject matter may be referred to herein, individually and/or collectively, by the term “invention” merely for convenience and without intending to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any single invention or inventive concept if more than one is in fact disclosed. Thus, although specific embodiments or aspects have been illustrated and described herein, it should be appreciated that any arrangement calculated to achieve the same purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments or aspects shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all adaptations or variations of various embodiments or aspects. Combinations of the above embodiments or aspects, and other embodiments or aspects not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description.

The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 CFR § 1.72(b) and will allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.

In the foregoing description of the embodiments or aspects, various features are grouped together in a single embodiment for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting that the claimed embodiments or aspects have more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed embodiment or aspect. Thus the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate example embodiment or aspect. It is contemplated that various embodiments or aspects described herein can be combined or grouped in different combinations that are not expressly noted in the Detailed Description. Moreover, it is further contemplated that claims covering such different combinations can similarly stand on their own as separate example embodiments or aspects, which can be incorporated into the Detailed Description. 

1. A modular panel shield comprising: a base including a channel, the base configured to provide stability with respect to a floor on which the modular panel shield is disposed; and a panel secured in the channel, the panel having a light distortion portion and a transparent portion, the light distortion portion configured to provide a distorted view through the panel, and the transparent portion configured to provide a clear view through the panel.
 2. The modular panel shield of claim 1, wherein the base is free standing on a surface or mounted to the surface.
 3. The modular panel shield of claim 1, wherein the base includes a base plate and a pair of L-brackets secured to the base plate, the base and the L-brackets forming the channel therebetween.
 4. The modular panel shield of claim 1, wherein the modular panel shield comprises a plurality of wheel assemblies secured to the base to provide movability along a surface.
 5. The modular panel shield of claim 1, wherein the panel includes a pair of panels secured to each other to provide the distorted view through the panel.
 6. The modular panel shield of claim 1, wherein the panel includes a panel cap extending about exposed edges of the panel.
 7. The modular panel shield of claim 1, wherein the panel includes an opening through the panel, and a second panel secured with respect to the opening to provide the clear view through the panel.
 8. The modular panel shield of claim 7, wherein the second panel includes a second opening through the second panel, and a speak-thru assembly secured with respect to the second opening.
 9. The modular panel shield of claim 1, wherein the panel includes an opening through the panel, and a shelf assembly secured with respect to the opening.
 10. The modular panel shield of claim 1, wherein the shelf assembly includes a shelf and a pair of legs secured to the shelf, the shelf disposed within the opening and extending through the opening to both sides of the panel, the legs straddling sides of the panel.
 11. A modular panel shield system comprising: a first modular panel shield comprising: a first base including a first channel, the first base configured to provide stability with respect to a floor on which the first modular panel shield is disposed; a first panel secured in the first channel, the first panel having at least a first light distortion portion, the light distortion portion configured to provide a first distorted view through the first modular panel; a second modular panel shield comprising: a second base including a second channel, the second base configured to provide stability with respect to the floor on which the second modular panel shield is disposed; a second panel secured in the second channel, the second panel having at least a second light distortion portion, the second light distortion portion configured to provide a second distorted view through the second modular panel; and a connector configured to connect the first modular panel and the second modular panel.
 12. The modular panel shield system according to claim 10, wherein the connector is an articulable connector allowing the first modular panel to articulate with respect to second modular panel between 0° to 180°.
 13. The modular panel shield system according to claim 12, wherein the articulable connector comprises a flexible sheet and a pair of panel connectors.
 14. The modular panel shield system according to claim 13, wherein each panel connector of the pair of panel connectors comprises a base and sidewalls forming a third channel therebetween, the flexible sheet being connected to outside sidewalls of the pair of panel connectors.
 15. The modular panel shield system according to claim 14, wherein the sidewalls are angled toward a centerline extending along the third channel of each panel connector of the pair of panel connectors.
 16. The modular panel shield system according to claim 11, wherein the connector is a straight connector allowing the first modular panel to extend in-line with respect to the second modular panel.
 17. The modular panel shield system according to claim 16, wherein the straight connector comprises a pair of panel connectors, each panel connector of the pair of panel connectors comprises a base and sidewalls forming a fourth channel therebetween, wherein bases of the pair of panel connectors are secured by an adhesive or the straight connector is extruded as a monolithic straight connector comprising the pair of panel connectors.
 18. The modular panel shield system according to claim 17, wherein the sidewalls are angled toward a centerline extending along the fourth channel.
 19. The modular panel shield system according to claim 13, wherein at least one panel connector of the pair of panel connectors comprises a base and sidewalls forming a third channel therebetween, wherein at least one sidewall of the sidewalls forms a channel configured to receive therein and connect the flexible sheet.
 20. The modular panel shield system according to claim 19, wherein the sidewalls are angled toward a centerline extending along the third channel of each panel connector of the pair of panel connectors.
 21. The modular panel shield system of claim 11, wherein the first base and the second base are free standing on a surface or mounted to the surface.
 22. The modular panel shield system of claim 11, wherein each of the first base and the second base includes a base plate and a pair of L-brackets secured to the base plate, the base plate and the L-brackets forming a channel therebetween, the channel being the first channel or the second channel.
 23. The modular panel shield system of claim 11, wherein each of the first modular panel shield and the second modular panel shield comprises a plurality of wheel assemblies secured respectively to the first base and the second to provide movability along a surface.
 24. The modular panel shield system of claim 11, wherein each of the first panel and the second panel comprises a pair of panels secured to each other to provide the first distorted view and the second distorted view through the first panel and the second panel respectively.
 25. The modular panel shield system of claim 11, wherein the first panel or the second panel comprises an opening therethrough, and a third panel secured with respect to the opening to provide the clear view through the first panel or the second panel.
 26. The modular panel shield system of claim 25, wherein the third panel includes a second opening through the third panel, and a speak-thru assembly secured with respect to the second opening.
 27. The modular panel shield system of claim 11, wherein the first panel or the second panel comprises an opening therethrough, and a shelf assembly secured with respect to the opening.
 28. The modular panel shield system of claim 27, wherein the shelf assembly includes a shelf and a pair of legs secured to the shelf, the shelf disposed within the opening and extending through the opening to both sides of the first panel or the second panel, the legs straddling sides of the first panel or the second panel. 